When was the last time you checked the alignment of your organization? For many, the answer is likely never! In fact, most probably don’t even know what true organizational alignment consists of.
According to Webster’s, alignment is an arrangement of groups or forces in relation to one another. In other words, is your organization in alignment with the mission, vision and long-range goals of the organization? Most would quickly say yes. But to be honest, you really don’t know unless you check the alignment on a regular basis.
Most organizations I’ve worked with assume that because the organization is making a profit and nothing has proverbially blown up that their alignment is just fine. As an example, we worked with an organization that appeared to be doing great with their alignment. They were profitable and growing. But there was a problem festering under the surface of this wonderful organization. When we conducted the analysis and compared it against the organization’s stated values, mission and vision we discovered a problem. There was at least one employee that was very unhappy. The stakeholders in the organization were surprised to find that there was a problem at all. The location was their most profitable and the person who was not happy was their best employee. The organization was out of alignment, and the negative effects of this had begun to spread throughout that location like a virus. Left unattended, this toxicity could have been the undoing of this particular location.
Analysis is the first step in identifying alignment issues. But how do we align the organization? This requires the delicate process of change management. Change management involves proper and effective communication, leadership coaching and follower training among other things. In some cases, alignment requires a clear definition of what the organization is here for. Alignment takes time and patience. The process can’t be rushed and steps can’t be overlooked. Success comes from a proper alignment, and is not always a do-it-yourself project.
I know better than to try and do a front-end alignment on my car. I take it to a mechanic who has the tools and expertise to assist me. The same goes for organizational alignment. Don’t go it alone. Most organizations do not have the time or expertise to align their organization. If you’re in that place, Maximum Change can help. Our team has over 60 years of leadership, management and organizational development experience.
If you believe your organization could benefit from our 4-step process, please contact us today by calling (615) 216-5667 for a free consult.
